Throughout history, footwear evolved to become more flexible and more sustainable while still getting the job decently. From shoelaces, designers from both Russia and France invented the first-ever zipped high boots during the 1950s. Since then, zipped boots are available in different colors, sizes, and forms all over the world.

The success of the project is not surprising. Users like the idea of getting the boots on and off in a convenient matter that shoelaces cannot do. Besides, these boots are still stylish and comfortable to wear, the same with traditional boots with high padding and long shoelaces.

If there’s one thing that makes this invention short of becoming the ultimate practical footwear that would be unexpected zipper malfunction. Imagine the horror when you’re running out late, but you cannot wear your shoes properly because of the worn-down zipper. Fortunately, there’s a quick and easy way to fix it.

It should be noted that this tutorial is for cases where the slider (the one you pull to open or the close the zipper) and the zipper itself are working fine. If you find yourself working with worn-out zippers, it’s better to take your boots to professional repair. Fixing or replacing worn-out zippers usually requires professional skills.

How to fix a broken zipper on boots?

For this tutorial, you will only need one thing: good and sturdy pliers. You don’t need to cut anything, and it is not advisable to do so. The pliers should be easy to handle with one hand and can pick up the zipper tooth without any hiccups. Bigger pliers can take out zipper teeth around the area, so watch out for that. Here is the step-by-step guide to fix a broken zipper.

  1. Assess the damage

First thing first, assesses the damage and make sure that the only problem in your boots is its zipper. We recommend leaving boots with damages such as broken heels, a big cut in the leather, or other problems for professional shoe repairers to handle. Usually, you’ll be able to repair the problem with zippers as well. For zipper malfunctions, proceed to the steps below.

  1. Remove the stopper using pliers

Zipper sliders are prevented by jumping out of the zipper via a small piece of metal called the stopper. It is made similarly with zipper tooth material but has a bigger appearance. Clamp the stopper via the pliers, but do not cut it. Set it aside because we’re going to use that to lock the zipper later.

  1. Remove the zipper slider

Next, pull the zipper slider all the way to the edge of the zipper system. Sliders with no damages will usually slide out easily. Check if the slider is already chipped or if one of the holes in is destroyed. Don’t pull the slider abruptly; you might tangle some lose fabric, which will slow down the repair.

  1. Connect the zippers manually

This part is probably the most tedious one in this tutorial. You have to manually connect the zippers as if you are closing it using the slider. If you misplaced a tooth, the zipper would not clamp properly. If this happens, the zipper will always get opened each time an opposing force pulls the zipper teeth apart. You can check the integrity of your zipper connections if the teeth do not get separated when you pull both sides in the opposite direction.

  1. Remove the first teeth in each side of the zipper

With perfectly aligned zipper teeth, your first instinct might be to re-insert the slider back. Usually, the damage of breaking the stopper affects the first teeth in front of the zipper. Remove these parts as accurately as possible. If the next teeth also have been destroyed, you can always cut until all teeth are good. Just make sure you won’t cut it into a very short zipper.

  1. Re-insert the slider again

To re-insert the slider, insert both ends of the zipper to the two holes. The bridge in the middle of two holes will break the connection between the zipper and will open it. It should work properly as before if you have aligned the zipper properly.

  1. Re-insert the stopper

Next, re-insert the stopper to the zipper system. Note that in step 3, we cut the first teeth of each zipper for easier integration. This time, instead of putting it back at the same spot, lower it down to fill up the gap left by the removed zipper part.

  1. Clamp the stoppers as tightly as possible

Last but not least, clamp the stopper using the handle of the pliers to keep it in place. If you lose your stoppers, a temporary fix is to sew the end of the zipper to prevent the slider from sliding out.

How do you fix a separated zipper?

How to Fix a Broken or Separated Zipper
  1. Remove the Bottom Stop From the Zipper.
  2. Position the Zipper Pull.
  3. Realign the Zipper Teeth.
  4. Reposition the Zipper Pull.
  5. Thread the Sewing Needle.
  6. Create a New Zipper Stop.
  7. Repair Above Damaged Teeth.
  8. Secure Thread.

What do you put on a boot zipper?

Zipper Riding Boot Care

Zipper care is more than a cleaner, polish and a rag. You also need a brush, cleaning agent/lubricant for zippers. Good zipper-care product choices include Zipper Ease (from AGS Company), Gear Aid’s Zip Cleaner and Lubricant and Hypofek from Pharmaka, most available from your tack retailer.

How do you fix a loose zipper on shoes?

To fix your loose zipper, you can use a small metal key ring, about the size of a penny. Look for a key ring that is thin and durable. You can also use a small rubber band if you are looking for a flexible option. A rubber band can be good if your zipper tends to unzip itself and get stuck mid way on the zipper.

How do you put a zipper back on the line?

Why is my zipper not closing?

The teeth don’t close (or they keep popping open)

If it doesn’t, the slider might not be working properly. Over time, the slider starts to come apart, and when that happens it stops clinching the zipper teeth together. Grab some pliers and try closing the slider together until it catches the teeth again.

How do you fix a zipper that is hard to zip?

How do you fix a zipper that won’t lock?

How do you open a zipper that won’t open?

Can a broken zipper be repaired?

The quick fix is to crimp the zipper slider so it is tighter and grabs the zipper teeth once again. The better fix is to replace the slider on your jacket zipper. Here’s how: Get a pair of end nippers and a pair of needle nose pliers.

How do you fix a zipper with a fork?

How much does it cost to fix a broken zipper?

There are so many variations to zippers and zipper replacement that it is difficult to give you a flat rate without explaining each of them to you. But typically, a zipper replacement can cost anywhere from $8-$75 (or more) depending on the item.

Can you replace a zipper?

To replace a zipper, you will need to get a new zipper that about the same as your old one, remove the old zipper with a seam ripper, and then sew the new zipper into place. The process is a little time consuming, but it is not difficult as long as you have a sewing machine and some basic sewing skills.

Can you replace a zipper pull tab?

What can I use to replace a zipper pull?

Replacing a Pull Tab. Buy a replacement zipper pull tab. You can also salvage a replacement pull tab from another zipper. If you don’t know what size to get, bring the original pull tab or zipper into the store with you.

How do you fix a broken zipper on a jacket?

How do you fix a zipper yourself?

How do you save a zipper?

Can I use wd40 on zippers?

If you find yourself at the losing end of a stuck zipper, reach for a bar of soap. Rub the stuff over the teeth of the zipper, and gently tug to make it give way. If that doesn’t work, move onto other types of lubricant, like pencil lead, glass cleaner, or petroleum jelly.